Thunder Launch Title Defense with Dramatic Double Overtime Victory
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to Oklahoma City in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the winning points late in double overtime as the Oklahoma City Thunder started their championship campaign with a narrow win over the visiting Rockets.
The reigning MVP poured in a team-high 35 points, including two clutch free throws with just mere seconds left in the second overtime, giving the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a career-high five three-pointers.
But Chet Holmgren, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental together with the game's hero.
"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute on defence we give ourselves a chance no matter what's going on—makes, misses, fortune or bad luck. We did sufficient defensive work to get the win. We're still shaking off rust, but it's a positive beginning."
Before the tip-off, the team's title banner was raised at their arena, while the squad were awarded their title rings.
The Thunder beat the Indiana Pacers in last season's best-of-seven NBA Finals. It was their maiden championship since the franchise moved in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the chance to secure some early revenge on Friday when they host Oklahoma, while the Rockets return to action on the same day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to prevent his current team the Lakers from suffering a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler scored 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the visiting Warriors.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he is recovering from sciatica.
